Guest Blog: My WWL Mum Story
She Paused. She Doubted. She Came Back Stronger.
My Women’s Work Lab story - by Shahana
Some of the most meaningful chapters of our lives begin in the most unexpected moments.
Mine began on an ordinary day, scrolling through Instagram.
And then I found Women’s Work Lab.
A Little About Me
My name is Shahana. I live in the UK and have a background in computer applications.
After taking a break from work to focus on my family, I knew I was ready to return.
I wanted to rebuild, to grow, and to become more independent.
But knowing you are ready and feeling ready are two very different things.
When I first started looking for job opportunities, I carried a quiet uncertainty with me. I lacked confidence.
I was not sure I still had what it took after my career break.
That is the place I was in when I came across Women’s Work Lab on social media.
Taking the Leap
Something about WWL stopped my scroll.
It felt like it had been built with women like me in mind, women returning to work, rebuilding
their confidence, and looking for a supportive space to take that next step.
So, with a mix of hope and nervousness, I decided to join the programme.
It turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.
What the Programme Gave Me
From the very beginning, the WWL programme was thoughtfully designed and genuinely helpful.
One of the most valuable things I gained was a deeper understanding of my own personal values and the transferable skills I already had. Skills I had been overlooking and taking for granted.
My programme manager Paige Josham was a constant source of encouragement throughout my journey. She made me feel seen, supported, and genuinely believed in — even on the days I struggled to believe in myself.
My trainer Becca Underwood was equally incredible. She had a wonderful ability to bring out the best in every woman in the room. Her passion for helping us grow was evident in everything she did.
To Paige and Becca — thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
My Placement With Inclusive Change
As part of the programme, I completed a placement with Inclusive Change, where I worked as an intern.
I contributed to website and digital content tasks, drawing on my background in computer applications in a real and meaningful way.
I also had the opportunity to write a blog post for their website. Writing that blog was a small but significant moment for me. It reminded me that I have something worthwhile to say and the ability to say it well.
How WWL Has Changed My Life
Before joining Women’s Work Lab, I felt unsure of myself.
I questioned whether I was capable, whether I was ready, whether there was still a place for me in the world of work.
The programme answered all of those doubts.
Today, I feel more confident in my abilities. I feel more prepared to take the next steps in my career. WWL has given me direction, practical experience, and the motivation to move forward with purpose.
I am genuinely proud of how far I have come.
A Message to Every Woman Still Scrolling
If you are reading this and something inside you is stirring — trust that feeling.
Maybe you found WWL on Instagram too. Maybe you have been thinking about it, wondering if it is for you.
Let me tell you from the heart – it is.
You do not need to have everything figured out. You do not need to feel fully ready. You simply need to take that one small, brave step.
Women’s Work Lab has made a real difference in my life and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity.
If you are looking to rebuild your confidence, gain practical experience, and find your footing again, I would not hesitate to recommend it.
Take the leap. It just might change your life.
About the Author
Shahana is a proud WWL graduate with a back ground in computer applications, now taking confident steps towards her career in an administrative and digital content role. She completed her placement with Inclusive Change and is passionate about encouraging women to believe in their own potential.
